Illicit Discharge Is Illegal

Illicit discharge happens when people dispose of anything except stormwater into the city's storm drains and catch basis -- and it is illegal.

On July 24, 2024, Clearwater's stormwater maintenance crews noticed significant clogs in stormwater pipes along Clearwater Beach. They spent hours working hard to remove chunks of wood and dried concrete, which should never have gone down into the storm drains. When this happens, it damages the stormwater system and prevents flows from operating efficiently.

Report Illicit Discharge When You See It

The city of Clearwater needs your help to make sure that everyone is helping to take care of our stormwater system, so that it can operate as best it can during rain and storm events.

Here's what you should know and look out for in your neighborhood:

• Many times, lawn-care employees will blow grass clippings, leaves and other vegetation into the street, toward catch basins, or down storm drains. This is illegal and causes big problems in our stormwater system.
• Contractors who are performing work on homes in Clearwater neighborhoods should never dispose of leftover concrete, stone, rock, vegetation and other construction debris into the city's storm drains. It is their responsibility to take their unused products with them and dispose of it safely and properly. That does not always happen.
• Residents should not pile trash on or near catch basins.
• Pinellas County and city of Clearwater ordinances prohibit the dumping of any waste, including chemicals, oil, sewage, trash and yard waste, into the city's storm drainage system. 

Report Illicit Discharge

If you see someone disposing of materials into the city's stormwater system, report it to us online through Clearwater Connect or by calling (727) 562-4950 Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. After hours, report it to our 24-hour dispatch line at (727) 462-6633.